LAHAINA – As Lahaina hunkers down to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, some wonderful individuals and businesses are taking small but extraordinary actions to help Historic Lahaina Town.

To recognize these unsung heroes, Lahaina Restoration Foundation has created the Lahaina What A Great Town! Awards.

There won’t be any handshakes or black slaps. No congratulatory hugs, lei or kisses either. There will not be any big award ceremony with hundreds of people.

With everything on lockdown, the awards will be issued in full splendor online.

The first award winner is Pioneer Inn, which rose to the challenge when the state closed the public restrooms at Lahaina Harbor, and the Old Lahaina Courthouse restrooms were also closed.

Pioneer Inn, at its own expense and its own initiative, brought in two porta-potties for the harbor area.

Through the diligent work of our senator, Roz Baker, the state has now opened the restrooms at Lahaina Harbor and Mala Wharf, but Pioneer Inn covered the need when it arose.

Three cheers to Pioneer Inn!

Lahaina Restoration Foundation will be sending Pioneer Inn a certificate via e-mail that staff can print or share with friends online.

LRF is now accepting nominations for the Lahaina – What A Great Town! Awards.

Visit the LRF website at www.lahainarestoration.org to fill out an online nomination form.

You can also e-mail your nomination to kimberly@lahainarestoration.org with the full name and e-mail/mailing address of your nominee, along with a description of the random act of assistance or kindness they did.

“We love Lahaina with all our heart,” said Theo Morrison, executive director of Lahaina Restoration Foundation.

“It is so sad to see all the shops closed, so we wanted to recognize the wonderful people who are the heart beat of this community.

“Please send in your nominations, and awards will be forthcoming. This is a recognition award – not a competitive award.

For further information, e-mail theo@lahainarestoration.org.